Sonora's trash costs could rise

Sonora residents could see their trash bills go up slightly under a proposed Cal Sierra Disposal rate increase.

If the Sonora City Council approves the increase Monday, monthly bills for curbside would increase 56 cents, to $15.11 for single-can service, according to a city report. Commercial rates for 1-cubic-yard dumpsters would increase $3.35, to $90 a month.

The new rates would be effective Wednesday, Oct. 1. Cal Sierra last increased rates in Sonora in 1995.

The increase is based on inflation and the addition of a city franchise fee, which charges Cal Sierra to be the sole collector in Sonora and for road wear by garbage trucks, said City Administrator Greg Applegate.

The franchise fee is expected to generate $17,000 annually for the city's general fund, he said.